TSA delays lift on small-knife ban

Washington – The Transportation Security Administration has delayed changes to its aircraft prohibited items list that would have allowed certain small knives in carry-on luggage beginning April 25.

In an April 23 announcement, TSA stated that the delay would allow time for further input from the Aviation Security Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from the aviation industry, law enforcement, the public and other stakeholders. TSA did not indicate when it intends to implement the delayed changes.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters had previously argued against the ban lift, stating the change would put flight attendants in danger due to lack of adequate protection in the cabin and lack of mandatory self-defense training.

In a recent blog post, the union stated that the ban lift had received “renewed scrutiny” following the Boston Marathon bombing on April 15.